Faith Formation

Special Religious Education

2/18/24 - Plans and Promises - Cycle B

Dear Families,

On this First Sunday of Lent, Mark’s Gospel tells us that the Spirit drove Jesus into the desert for 40 days. Jesus was tempted by the devil. Jesus was not alone in the desert. Jesus was among wild beasts and the angels ministered to him. We also learn that after John the Baptist was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God proclaiming “The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”

Ash Wednesday was the beginning of Lent. When we received our ashes on our foreheads, we heard the words “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” As we begin this first week of Lent, let’s read the scriptures which will help us understand the joy of God’s love for us. How He is there for us when we are tempted to do something wrong. When we turn to the Gospels, it gives us the strength to pray, fast, and give to others. Let’s repent of our sins, and know that God is there to help us. Like Jesus teaches us, let’s proclaim to others through our actions that the “Kingdom of God is at hand.”

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question.
What is Jesus asking when he says to repent and believe in the Good News?

Family Prayer: Holy Spirit, help us to make good choices that are pleasing to God. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

It is the third Sunday of Advent. In this Sunday’s Gospel, John the Baptist not only prepares for Christ’s arrival, but also gives his testimony. We too are called to tell our stories of Jesus coming into our lives. We are asked to be other “voices in the desert”, proclaiming Jesus to the world.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. Who are the people whose words and actions have taught you about Jesus? How can we pray without stopping?

Family Prayer: Dear Jesus, show us how to teach others about you. Help us to be voices of faith. Help us rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in all circumstances give thanks. Amen

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Watch video as a family.

(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

2/25/24 - Abraham, Isaac, and Jesus Transfigured - Cycle B

Dear Families,

In this Second Sunday of Lent, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a mountain and they witness Jesus’ Transfiguration. His clothes became dazzling white and then Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. Peter, James, and John were amazed and afraid. Then a cloud came and made a shadow over them. A voice spoke from the cloud and said “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him”. They wonder what all this means. Coming down the mountain Jesus told Peter, James, and John not to tell anyone what happened until after He rose from the dead.

The Transfiguration remind us that even though Jesus suffered and died on the Cross, he rose in glory and gave us the opportunity for a new life forever in Heaven. It helps us understand that hard times will come and we need to think about Jesus because he understands our pain and suffering. There is a better life waiting for us when we are faithful. Each Lent gives us the opportunity to grow closer to Jesus, and become the person God created us to be for His glory.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What are some ways you can listen to Jesus? How will you listen to Jesus to change and grow during Lent?

Family Prayer: Jesus, show us the way to God the Father. Helps us listen so that we can hear you and follow you. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

3/3/24 - Jesus at the Temple - Cycle B

Dear Families,

For the next three Sundays when you attend the 9:00AM or 11:00AM mass you will be listening to the Cycle A Gospel Readings. This is because we have adults who will be receiving their Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. As a community, we will be reflecting with them on their journey towards their Sacraments of Initiation. This week, we listen to the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman and his living water. Let us all ask ourselves, in what area in my life am I thirsting for Jesus’ living water?

This video is based on the Cycle B, Gospel of John. Jesus goes to the Temple and is angry at the people who are using the Temple for profit rather than for love of God. When Jesus is asked to give a sign as to who gives him the authority to drive these merchants out of the Temple. Jesus answers “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up again.”

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
What Temple is Jesus talking about? When you are in church are you aware of Jesus Temple?

Family Prayer: Lord, during this time of Lent help us draw closer to you by praying, fasting, and giving. Amen.

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(La versión en español sigue al inglés)

Dear Families,

It is the fourth Sunday of Advent. In this Sunday’s Gospel the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and asked her to be the mother of Jesus. She said yes to God’s invitation. Mary believed God could do impossible things. Through her yes, she brought Jesus into the world. This Thursday, December 25^th, after all the waiting and preparation, our Savior is here. It is a time of great joy. Merry Christmas to all. May the birth of our Savior open your hearts to his love.

As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other this question. How do you show that you believe God can do impossible things? How is Jesus a gift in your life? How do you share this gift with others?

Family Prayer: Dear God, show us how to bring Jesus to others.